Christian Marriage

            In Cambodia, weddings are one of the most important events in the Cambodians' lives, as in most countries.  According to their culture, they will use lots of money (even though they may need to borrow from relatives or sell their properties), plus effort to make it as ‘perfect' as possible.  Actually, Christians are the minority group in the community; they will always face difficulty in having their weddings in a church if their families are non-Christians. On the other hand, they may need to fulfill the requirements of traditions that are based on Buddhist or Hindu rites. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the wedding of one of our Bible School students, Sophanny (who is the son of the Takhmau church pastor). Both the families are Christians and the whole event was a wonderful witness to glorify God's name. 

The wedding vows in the church

There were more than a hundred people who attended the ceremony, which was joyful and full of excitement. The program was similar to that of Hong Kong, as the pastor had the couple solemnly repeat their vows towards each other in the presence of God and the congregation.  Moreover, the pastor encouraged them by God's Word, and it was also an opportunity to proclaim God's Will and let the guests understand the meaning of marriage.  In traditional Cambodian wedding rites, the monks and their elderly relatives would mainly bless the couple's future with prosperity and happiness.  However, they never mention the commitment, sacrifice and the source of love that make the marriage work by the grace of the Lord.  May God bless the new couple to walk side by side in God's presence along the way of pilgrimage.

The Wedding Banquet

The banquet was held at a restaurant (usually in the villages, the feast is held in the front yard of the bride's home), and the proceedings were mostly the traditional Cambodian style.  The bride and groom greeted the guests at the entrance, and they changed outfits two to three times in 2 hours; each table could begin eating whenever all 10 people were seated; the couple cut a wedding cake and toasted the guests, and of course, there was a live band present to sing songs with loud music during the program.  Nevertheless, I discovered that this time was a bit different because the band was organized by the young people of the church.  They sang hymns instead of secular songs, and conveyed the gospel message in a unique way.  Praise the Lord that we can lift up His name on different occasions.

The brotherhood of Christ

The whole wedding is not only a matter between two families; it also involves the brothers and sisters in the Lord.  The church members help the couple whole-heartedly in such was as organizing the program, decorating the venue, receiving guests, presenting songs, taking photos, etc.. We could feel the harmonious and wonderful fellowship in Christ. Actually, the brothers and sisters needed to sacrifice their time, money and effort, especially as most of us are not rich and capable. However, their love to the couple made everything  possible.

In the Christian community, we can witness Christ's love in our daily living no matter whether big or small situations, such as weddings, funerals, celebration of new family members, moving to a new house or even accidents and sickness.  Whatever circumstances we are in, it is also a way to share the Gospel to our relatives, friends and neighbors.

Prayer points

1.  May God bless the Christian families in Cambodia to be witnesses of God's love and grace

2.  We are still seeking sponsors for our new University students; may God provide

3.  Most of our Bible School and university students have started their new term; may God continue to guide their studies and living

4. The preparation for the Hong Kong Medical team from Nov 1-10. They will serve at Takhmau church, Koh Ksachtunlea East church and our childcare centers

5. The wedding of Brother Daniel Sar on November 8

I Corinthians 7:3

Davis Lam

Cambodia Mail Address: P.O Box 602, Phnom Penh, Cambodia